The Defence Ministers of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) today have taken a decisive step by agreeing to activate a ‘JEF Response Option’.
The Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) is a United Kingdom-led expeditionary force which consists of Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway.
Nine of the countries are also members of NATO, with Sweden currently outside that alliance as their application is pending ratification.
The statement released by the Ministry of Defence states:
“Today, the Defence Ministers of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) agreed to activate a JEF Response Option. This includes Maritime and Air capabilities which will deploy across the JEF’s core region as a military contribution to the protection of critical undersea infrastructure. The activity will take place in early December and will ensure a security presence, strengthening our common efforts with NATO in the Baltic Sea region.
The JEF is determined to enhance its preparedness in supporting the JEF Nations to protect their Critical National Infrastructure.
Throughout 2023, the JEF has developed a series of JEF Response Options, designed to deter, and defend our region from threats and establish how we can quickly respond to crises. This marks the first time a JEF Response Option has been activated. It provides a tangible demonstration of the JEF as a credible contributor to security in Northern Europe and a powerful message of our ability and commitment to bolstering the security of our critical undersea infrastructure and deterrence of hybrid threats.
By co-operating through the JEF we are able to find collaborative solutions to common regional security challenges, in line with the JEF Vision published at the JEF Leaders’ Summit in Sweden on 13 October.”
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
